How to Choose a Yoga Studio

While it is easy to be dazzled by a fancy and aesthetically pleasing space, there are other elements that you should consider when choosing a yoga studio.

One of the best ways to be introduced to a yoga studio is by a friend or coworker who can make a recommendation. Keep in mind that we all have different tastes, preferences, and standards. Ultimately, it has to be the right vibe for you.

You want your needs to be addressed with the types of yoga classes offered and their scheduling. You also want to receive quality instruction from qualified teachers. There’s no real way to assess this without actually attending a class at the prospective studio.

Practice in Action

If you call to make an inquiry, notice how the person on the phone communicates with you. Does she answer your questions directly, or does she seem to be giving you a sales pitch? You should never feel as if you are being manipulated. While you shouldn’t expect everybody who practices yoga to be smiley and happy all the time, it is fair to assume yoga studio staff will be mindful of their behaviour and service to customers.

A yoga studio is a business, but its foundation should still be yogic. Ideally, it will be run by people who practice and understand the basics of an authentic yoga practice and its application to everyday life.

Teachers

Most teachers will have trained with reputable schools but, since yoga is not regulated, they do not have to be certified or licensed. It is not inappropriate to ask your teacher about her training or background.

It is possible that you might not like a teacher’s personality. (If so, that might be your ego talking!) Try to look beyond to see what she has to offer. Does she challenge you mentally and physically? While it is ideal for you to develop trust and build a relationship with your teacher, this “connection” can occur without becoming friends.

Your teacher should give clear instruction, provide clarification, and answer your questions. If not right away, she should be able to address your concerns as soon as possible or the next time she sees you.

Management

A studio’s management style is reflected through its teachers. If management is more laid-back and casual, teachers will usually follow suit. Classes might not start or end exactly on time.

But if management is disorganized, this may result in discrepancies in the schedule. If a teacher shows up late and seemingly frazzled to teach an otherwise great class, consider that her tardiness might be because of poor management. Also, observe how the owner or manager speaks to or communicates with the teachers. This will tend to trickle down the line. If teachers are being treated well or poorly, this will eventually affect students.

These are some suggestions to help you make informed decisions when choosing a yoga studio. We all have different priorities. If location or price outweighs all other considerations, then choose whatever feels right for you!